SIMPLY CHARMING
Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 12/21/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It's difficult not to wax enthusiastic about the melodic and magical works of contemporary composer, Charles Fernandez, on his first CD outing for Trone Music. Joining the ranks of modernists whose music still rebounds with undeniable and gratifying lyricism, Fernandez stands easily and persuasively.
Most impressive is the nearly thirty-six minute balletic dance suite, "The Statue," commissioned by The Bakersfield Musica da Camera (California), obviously for The Bakersfield Civic Dance Company, and performed in 1996. It is here expanded by the composer, delightfully so, from chamber ensemble to full orchestra and with added musical selections that round out the composition. Rich in texture, elegiac nuance and wit, the work has an instantaneous and enduring romantic appeal. Furthering the programmatic efforts of such composers as Stenhammar (Serenade, Op. 31), Finzi (Suite from "Love's Labours Lost"), Prokofiev ("A Winter Campfire") and Stravinsky ("The Fairy's Kiss"), Fernandez holds his own more than adequately with music that continues already familiar and popular precedents. This, in itself, speaks remarkably well of the composer's originality and invention.
The other orchestral works on this disc are no less impressive.
Particularly beautiful is the ballad, "Soulmate Found," sung meltingly by tenor Philip Ball. "A Soldier's Farewell," too, in light of the awesome events of September 11, 2001 and the ongoing madness of war, terrorism and untimely death, draws from an emotional palette that seems nearly endless nowadays. Upbeat, however, and paying homage to Eric Coates (e.g. "London Suites"), is the triptych Fernandez calls "Windsor Pageantry," most notable for its third movement stylish reworking of "Amazing Grace for Jazz Bassoon and Strings," with the composer as soloist--- and CD producer, Paul Witt, conducting!
Throughout, the Royal Philharmonic, under Fernandez's direction, acquits itself with honors. The sound is warm, vibrant, detailed. If this music is any indication of potential, it is also less than likely that this multi-faceted artist will ever disappoint.
[Running time: 56:37]"